Kiribati Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Kiribati, state of the Pacific, about 4,500 km northeast of Australia; 861 km², 116 000 residents (2019).Kiribati extends along the equator, 3,780 km in the west-east direction, and consists of the west coral island of Banaba (Ocean Island), the 16 atolls that make up the Gilbert Islands (and which gave the country its former name), the 8 atolls in the Phoenix Islands, and 8 of the 11 atolls in the Line Islands, including Kiritimati (Christmas Island). The capital is Tarawa.

Country facts

Republic of Kiribati / Republic of Kiribati
Country abbreviation: KI
Area: 861 km²
Population (2019): 116,000 residents
Capital: Tarawa
Main languages: kiribati, English
State: Republic
Head of State and Head of Government: Taneti Maamau (President)
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 1,625
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 3,140
Currency unit: 1 Australian dollar = 100 cents
Currency code: AUD
Country number (telephony): 686
Internet Domain Name: ki
Time difference compared to Sweden: +11 to +13
National Day: July 12 (Independence Day, 1979)

Nature

Land use: forest (3%), agricultural land (51%), other (46%)
Highest mountain: unnamed elevation on the island of Banaba (81 meters above sea level)

Population

Population density (2019): 135 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 2.1%; birthrate 28 ‰, death count 7 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (35%), 15-64 (61%), 65- (4%)
Average life expectancy (2019): men 59 years, women 64 years
Infant mortality (2019): 43 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 200,000 residents
HDI (2017): 0.612 (place 134 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 54%
Most populous city (2012): Tarawa (50,200 residents)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2016): agriculture (23%), industry (7%), service (70%)
Export (2013): US $ 85 million
Main export products: copra, coconuts, seagrass, fish
Main exporting countries: Philippines, Malaysia, USA
Imports (2016): US $ 107 million
Main import products: food, machinery, means of transport
Main importing countries: Australia, Fiji, New Zealand
Railway network: nothing in operation

Geography

Location and Borders

Kiribati is a small island nation located in the central Pacific Ocean, consisting of 33 coral islands spread across a vast area of more than 3.5 million square kilometers (1.35 million square miles) of ocean. The nation is scattered over a vast expanse of the Pacific, from approximately 4°N to 1°S latitude and 157°E to 174°W longitude. Kiribati lies equidistant between Hawaii and Australia, and it is one of the most remote nations in the world.

The islands of Kiribati are divided into three main groups: the Gilbert Islands, the Phoenix Islands, and the Line Islands. The Gilbert Islands, where the capital city of Tarawa is located, are the most populous and politically significant. The Phoenix Islands, located to the south of the Gilberts, are largely uninhabited but form a significant part of the country’s marine area. The Line Islands, situated to the east, include a mix of inhabited and uninhabited islands, with some atolls located near the international dateline.

Kiribati has no land borders, as it is entirely composed of islands, most of which are atolls formed by coral reefs. The islands are spread over a vast oceanic expanse, making them geographically isolated from other nations, contributing to the unique cultural and environmental characteristics of Kiribati.

Physical Features

The physical geography of Kiribati is marked by low-lying atolls and islands, many of which are only a few meters above sea level. These islands are formed from coral reefs and consist of sandy beaches, lagoons, and fringing reefs. Kiribati does not have any mountains, and its terrain is almost entirely flat, which makes it highly vulnerable to sea level rise caused by climate change.

The largest island in Kiribati, Tarawa, where the capital city is located, is an atoll that stretches across a series of smaller islets and sandbars. These islets are interconnected by causeways and are home to the majority of Kiribati’s population. The smaller islands, such as those in the Phoenix and Line Islands, are also low-lying and sparsely populated. Many of these islands are surrounded by vibrant coral reefs, which support rich marine biodiversity and play an essential role in the island communities’ fishing economy.

The geography of Kiribati, with its atolls and islands, is crucial to the nation’s way of life. The islands are surrounded by shallow lagoons, coral reefs, and open ocean. These features not only define the nation’s economy, particularly through fishing and tourism, but also present significant environmental challenges due to rising sea levels and increasing vulnerability to tropical storms.

Climate

Kiribati has a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. Due to its location along the equator, the country experiences relatively stable weather, with only small variations in temperature. Average temperatures range from 26°C (79°F) to 31°C (88°F), and rainfall is distributed throughout the year, though some islands experience more rainfall than others, particularly those located in the southern part of the nation.

The climate of Kiribati is also affected by the El Niño-Southern Oscillation, a periodic climate phenomenon that can bring prolonged droughts or heavy rainfall to the islands. The country is also vulnerable to tropical storms, which occur seasonally between November and April. These storms, although not as frequent as in other parts of the Pacific, can cause significant damage to the islands, particularly due to their low-lying nature.

Kiribati’s islands are facing increasing challenges due to climate change. Rising sea levels threaten to submerge low-lying islands, making the nation one of the most vulnerable in the world to climate change. The government has raised international awareness of the need for climate action, and the country’s geographic isolation compounds its vulnerability to global environmental changes.

Natural Resources

Kiribati’s natural resources are primarily marine-based. The country’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) is vast and rich in fisheries, particularly tuna. The fishing industry, particularly tuna fishing, plays a vital role in the country’s economy, with Kiribati benefiting from fishery agreements with foreign countries and companies. The country’s marine environment is also a source of income through the sale of fishing rights, which help support the nation’s economy.

Kiribati has limited land-based resources due to its low-lying geography. There are no significant mineral deposits, and agricultural production is constrained by the scarcity of fertile land. The primary agricultural products include coconuts, taro, breadfruit, and pandanus, which are grown on small plots of arable land on the islands. However, the country’s capacity to produce food is limited, and Kiribati depends on imports for much of its food supply.

The nation’s environmental resources, such as its coral reefs and marine life, are not only important for the economy but also hold cultural significance. However, these natural resources face increasing threats from climate change, such as ocean acidification, coral bleaching, and the loss of biodiversity.

People

Population and Ethnic Composition

Kiribati has a population of around 120,000 people, spread across 33 islands. The majority of the population, approximately 96%, are of I-Kiribati descent, an Austronesian ethnic group that has inhabited the islands for thousands of years. The I-Kiribati people are known for their strong cultural ties to the sea, and their traditional livelihoods have historically been based on fishing, subsistence farming, and navigation.

The country is ethnically homogenous, with a small minority of expatriates, including people from countries such as Fiji, the Solomon Islands, and the Philippines, who work in various sectors such as education, healthcare, and government services. Despite its small population, Kiribati’s people are incredibly resilient, with a culture deeply tied to the land and the sea.

The I-Kiribati people are known for their sense of community and family, with extended family networks being a key component of social structure. The tradition of living in close-knit communities plays a central role in the daily lives of people across the islands, and social cohesion is a vital part of I-Kiribati culture.

Language

The official language of Kiribati is Gilbertese, also known as I-Kiribati, which is an Austronesian language. Gilbertese is the most widely spoken language, and it is used in daily communication, education, and government. English is also an official language, particularly in administrative, legal, and educational contexts, though it is less commonly spoken among the general population.

Gilbertese is an important part of Kiribati’s national identity, and the language plays a central role in maintaining cultural traditions and oral history. The language reflects the island communities’ strong ties to their environment and their maritime heritage. Despite its importance, the younger generation in urban areas, particularly in the capital of Tarawa, is increasingly adopting English, and there are concerns about the preservation of the language.

In addition to Gilbertese and English, some island communities may also speak other languages due to migration or inter-island trade, though these languages are typically not widely spoken outside of specific regions.

Religion

The majority of the population in Kiribati is Christian, with Roman Catholicism and Protestantism being the two most widely practiced denominations. The arrival of Christianity in Kiribati in the 19th century, particularly through British missionaries, transformed the religious landscape of the islands. Today, the majority of I-Kiribati identify as either Roman Catholic or part of the Protestant Church of the Pacific, which includes various denominations such as the Kiribati Protestant Church and the Seventh-Day Adventist Church.

Religious practices and church attendance are an integral part of daily life in Kiribati, with Sundays being a significant day for worship and family gatherings. Christian festivals, such as Christmas and Easter, are celebrated with public holidays, religious services, and community events.

Traditional beliefs also play a role in Kiribati culture, with ancestral worship and spiritual connections to the sea and the land being important in some communities. However, traditional practices have been largely replaced or integrated with Christian beliefs over time.

Economy

Key Industries

Kiribati has a small, developing economy that is heavily reliant on natural resources, particularly fishing. The nation’s exclusive economic zone is one of the largest in the world, and the fishing industry, particularly tuna fishing, is the most significant sector of the economy. The government generates revenue through the leasing of fishing rights to foreign countries and companies, with tuna being the primary export commodity.

In addition to fishing, Kiribati’s economy relies on remittances from its diaspora, as many I-Kiribati people live and work abroad, particularly in countries like New Zealand, Australia, and Fiji. These remittances help support local families and contribute to the national economy.

Agriculture also plays a role, though it is limited due to the small size of arable land. Coconut production, particularly copra (dried coconut meat), is one of the main agricultural activities, along with the cultivation of root crops such as taro and yams. Despite this, food production is insufficient to meet local needs, and the country relies on imports for much of its food supply.

Tourism is an emerging sector, with visitors attracted to the country’s unique atolls, coral reefs, and rich cultural heritage. However, tourism infrastructure remains underdeveloped, and the country faces challenges such as limited accessibility and vulnerability to climate change impacts.

Economic Challenges

Kiribati faces significant economic challenges, including limited resources, isolation, and vulnerability to environmental changes. The country’s remoteness and lack of natural resources mean that it depends heavily on imports for most goods and services, resulting in a trade imbalance. The government is working to improve infrastructure, education, and healthcare, but the lack of resources poses constraints.

The threat of climate change, particularly rising sea levels, poses a dire threat to Kiribati’s economy. The nation’s low-lying islands are at risk of being submerged, which could displace communities, destroy infrastructure, and disrupt agricultural and fishing activities. The government has been vocal about the need for global action to address climate change and has even pursued a strategy of purchasing land in other countries, such as Fiji, to ensure the future of the nation’s people.

Foreign Aid and International Relations

Kiribati relies on foreign aid to support its economic development, particularly in the areas of health, education, and infrastructure. The country has close relationships with international organizations such as the United Nations, the World Bank, and the Pacific Islands Forum. Australia, New Zealand, and the United States are among the main donors, providing financial aid, technical assistance, and support for climate change adaptation efforts.

The country’s political and economic isolation makes it heavily reliant on international partnerships for trade, development, and diplomacy. Kiribati actively participates in regional and international forums to raise awareness about the existential threats posed by climate change and to seek assistance for its population.

Government

Political System

Kiribati is a republic with a presidential system of government. The president, who is both the head of state and the head of government, is elected for a four-year term. The president is responsible for the executive branch, overseeing the government’s day-to-day operations, directing foreign policy, and managing national security. The president is supported by the cabinet, which is appointed by the president.

The National Parliament of Kiribati consists of 47 members who are elected by the people through a mixed-member system. The parliament is responsible for passing laws, approving the budget, and providing checks and balances on the executive. The legal system of Kiribati is based on English common law, with customary law playing a role in certain areas, particularly in local communities.

Legal System

Kiribati’s legal system is based on English common law, with some elements of customary law incorporated into the legal framework. The judiciary is independent, and the country’s court system includes the High Court, the Court of Appeal, and local courts. The legal system is designed to address both criminal and civil matters, but due to the country’s size and geographical challenges, access to justice can be limited in rural and remote areas.

The country has made efforts to modernize its legal infrastructure, particularly in areas such as land ownership, environmental protection, and labor rights. However, the legal system faces challenges related to resources, infrastructure, and the need for training and capacity-building among legal professionals.

Foreign Policy and International Relations

Kiribati maintains a foreign policy focused on addressing climate change and ensuring the survival of its people in the face of rising sea levels. The country is a vocal advocate for climate change action in international forums, including the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), and has sought assistance from the international community to mitigate the impacts of climate change.

The country has diplomatic relations with a number of countries, including Australia, New Zealand, and the United States, as well as regional relationships within the Pacific Islands Forum. Kiribati has also pursued a policy of regional cooperation and is a member of organizations such as the Pacific Islands Development Forum and the South Pacific Regional Environment Programme.

Challenges and Future Outlook

The future of Kiribati is heavily shaped by its vulnerability to climate change. Rising sea levels, droughts, and the degradation of natural resources threaten the country’s survival, and the government continues to push for global action on climate change. The nation’s long-term survival may depend on international cooperation, as well as continued efforts to diversify its economy, improve infrastructure, and prepare for the challenges of a changing world.

Culture

Language and Literature

Kiribati’s official language is Gilbertese (I-Kiribati), which belongs to the Austronesian language family. Gilbertese is spoken by nearly the entire population and is an essential part of the country’s cultural identity. English is also an official language and is used in government, legal matters, and international communication. While English is spoken by some, Gilbertese remains the primary language for everyday communication.

Kiribati has a rich oral tradition, with stories, songs, and poems passed down through generations. These traditions are central to the islanders’ cultural heritage and reflect their deep connection to the sea, land, and ancestors. Gilbertese literature, while limited in written form, remains vibrant in the oral storytelling tradition, with stories of heroism, migration, and environmental stewardship being central themes.

Music and Dance

Music and dance are an integral part of Kiribati culture, often used to celebrate milestones, festivals, and rituals. Traditional Kiribati music involves a wide range of instruments, including drums, shell horns, and wooden flutes. Dance, often performed in group settings, is characterized by fluid movements that tell stories or reflect the rhythms of daily life, such as fishing, agriculture, and traditional ceremonies.

The islanders also practice vocal music, with chanting and songs often accompanying important ceremonies and communal events. Music and dance are vital expressions of identity, social cohesion, and cultural continuity in Kiribati society.

Festivals and Traditions

Kiribati’s culture is deeply tied to its traditions, with numerous festivals and ceremonies marking the rhythms of life. The most significant celebrations are tied to Christianity, particularly Christmas and Easter, which are celebrated with church services, feasts, and communal gatherings. These religious observances reflect the significant role of Christianity in Kiribati society, a legacy of missionary work in the 19th century.

In addition to Christian holidays, Kiribati celebrates national events such as Independence Day, which commemorates the country’s independence from Britain in 1979. Traditional festivals, such as the Uti (a festival honoring elders), are also celebrated, though they have become less common due to the influence of Christianity and modernization.

Cuisine

Kiribati cuisine is based on the resources available in the islands, with an emphasis on seafood, coconuts, and root vegetables. Fish, particularly tuna, is the primary protein source, and is often prepared in traditional ways such as drying or smoking. Coconut is used in a variety of dishes, either grated, chopped, or turned into oil for cooking. Root crops like taro and breadfruit are essential staples in the Kiribati diet.

The influence of Western and Asian cuisines has led to the introduction of new ingredients and cooking techniques, particularly in urban areas like Tarawa. However, traditional dishes, particularly those involving fish, coconut, and root crops, remain central to everyday meals. The food culture in Kiribati reflects both a deep connection to the sea and land, as well as the impact of external influences on island life.